The MTV Video Music Awards 2022 made it’s return to the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ!
This year was hosted by Jack Harlow, Nicki Minaj, and LL Cool J, the first time the show had multiple hosts since 1986. According to Hollywood Reporter, the producers wanted “a more innovative and unique approach” to the traditional hosting gig.
As this year’s Video Vanguard Award recipient, Nicki Minaj took to the stage to perform a medley of hits including, “All Things Go”, “Monster”, “Beez in the Trap”, “Chun-Li” and more.
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Shortly after her outstanding performance, Minaj revisited the stage to accept her Vanguard Award. While accepting the lifetime achievement prize, Minaj shouted out her Barbz and thanked musicians who played a pivotal role in her career ascension.[anyclip-media thumbnail=”undefined” playlistId=”undefined” content=”dW5kZWZpbmVk”][/anyclip-media]
She also acknowledge the late pop icons, Whitney Houston and Micheal Jackson.
“I wrote this down, I don’t know why y’all but this is what this was in my spirit to say, I wish that Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson were here”, she said while reading from her phone.
“I wish that people understood what they meant and what they were going through. I wish people took mental health seriously even for the people who you think have the perfect lives.”
She also expressed similar sentiments about murdered rappers Pop Smoke and Nipsey Hussle, as well as Juice WRLD, who died following a drug overdose.
Minaj’s 22-month old son, Papa Bear, was the last but best inspiration she thanked in her speech.
“You guys are my babies but I have a new baby. His name is Papa Bear. And I love him. Papa Bear, Mommy loves you soooo much!”
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